Artwork
Lucius Verus
Lucius Verus is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Roger Fenton. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
The figure has curly hair and a thick beard, dressed in a draped cloak that falls over one shoulder.
This is a black-and-white photo of a stone bust. The figure has curly hair and a thick beard, dressed in a draped cloak that falls over one shoulder. The face looks calm but serious, with a slight tilt to the head.
This photo was taken in 1855, showing a sculpture meant to look like a Roman emperor. The lighting is simple but clear, making the details stand out.
Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.
Overview
A mid-19th-century sepia photograph captures a side view of a stone bust depicting a Roman emperor, characterized by curly hair, a thick beard, and a draped cloak. The bust conveys a calm yet serious demeanor through its subtle head tilt.
Subject & Meaning
The sculpture portrayed is a representation of Lucius Verus, a Roman emperor, emphasizing his imperial authority through the draped cloak and serene facial expression. The photograph preserves the artistic intent of the original sculpture.
Technique & Style
The 1855 photograph utilizes simple, clear lighting to highlight the sculptural details, showcasing the textures of the stone, hair, and drapery. The sepia tone adds a sense of antiquity, aligning with the subject's historical context.
History & Provenance
Photographed in 1855, this image documents a sculptural work from the Roman imperial period. While the current location of the original bust is not specified here, similar works can be found in repositories like the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Artist & collection
